Herescope

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1)

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Search The Scriptures

Comparing Scripture with Scripture

Christian believers have a duty that lies in the command to “search the Scriptures” (John 5:39), ἐρευνᾶτε τὰς γραφάς: i.e., make a diligent investigation of the mind of God in them.
1 Corinthians 2:13 speaks of “comparing spiritual things with spiritual” — examining what the Spirit has declared of the mind of God in one place in Scripture with what He, in like manner, has manifested in another place.

This is the true nature of biblical meditation. God tries our obedience and exercises our diligence unto a study in His Word day and night. Psalms 1:2: “But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in His law doth he meditate day and night.” And in our continual meditation thereon, 1 Timothy 4:15 reminds us, (ταῦτα μελέτα, ἐν τούτοις ἴσθι) — “Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.”

God has planted His truths with great variety up and down his Word. Here in one part, and there in another, of the same truth; both which cannot be thoroughly learned unless we gather them together into one view. For instance, in one place God commands us to circumcise our hearts, and to make unto ourselves new hearts, that we may fear Him. At first consideration it seems to represent it not only as our duty but also within our power, as though we had no need of any help from His grace for its accomplishment. In another, He promises absolutely to circumcise our hearts, and to give us new hearts to fear Him; as though it were so much His work as not to be our concern to even attempt it. But now these several places, being spiritually compared together, make it evident that just as it is our duty to have new and circumcised hearts, so it is the effectual grace of God that must work and create them in us. And the like may be observed in all the important truths that are of divine revelation.

Cherry picking,suppressing evidence, or thefallacy of incomplete evidenceis the act of pointing to individual cases or data that seem to confirm a particular position while ignoring a significant portion of related cases or data that may contradict that position. It is a kind of fallacy of selective attention.... The term is based on the perceived process of harvesting fruit, such ascherries. The picker would be expected to only select the ripest and healthiest fruits.... Cherry picking has a negative connotation as the practice neglects, overlooks or directly suppresses evidence that could lead to a complete picture. (Source)

Avoid Cherry PickingSearching of the Scriptures and comparing spiritual things with spiritual will discover the root of almost all the errors and heresies that are in the world. Men whose hearts are not subdued by faith and humility unto the obedience of the truth will alight on some expression in the Scripture, that, singly considered, seem to give countenance to some such opinion as they are willing to embrace. Without further search they will fix it on their minds and imaginations. So much so that it becomes too late to oppose any thing unto it. For when they are once fixed in their own persuasions they cease to consider those other places of Scripture which they should with humility have compared with that the sense they have chosen to cleave unto. They might have learned the mind of the Holy Ghost in them all compared together, but this is missed. Instead they consider it to no other end but only how they may pervert it. Thus they free themselves from the authority of “all the counsel of God” (Acts 20:27).

There are those who tenaciously cling to false and foolish opinions. They rashly take up a seeming sense of some particular places, and then obstinately make that sense the rule of interpreting all other Scriptures whatsoever. For example, there are those who, from the outward sound of these words, John 1:9, “He is the true light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world,” have taken up a rash, foolish, and false imagination that Christ is that light which is remaining in all men (i.e., Universalism). Therein lies their guide and rule, and from this they wrest the whole Scripture to make it suit and answer that notion. But if they had taken it with other Scriptures, which clearly explain and declare the mind of God in the things which concern the person and mediation of the Lord Christ, and compared this with the nature and works of natural and saving spiritual light, and if they had submitted to the authority and wisdom of God in these verses, they might have been preserved from their delusion.

It is dangerous for believers to be unskilled and unexercised in the word of Truth. Without a good knowledge of the Scriptures, and without the advice, assistance, or direction of others who are able to guide them and instruct their inquiry after the mind of God, they may go astray. Many unlearned believers hastily embrace opinions which only one text of Scripture does seemingly give countenance to. By this fault they run themselves into danger, especially where any seducing spirit applies himself unto them with swelling words of vanity, boasting of some misunderstood word or other. Thus have we seen multitudes led astray by a few particular places of Scripture into an opinion about a general redemption of all mankind (Universalism). Yet if they had been wise, and had searched other Scriptures innumerable, they would have seen the setting forth the eternal love of God to those who would believe, His purpose to save them by Jesus Christ, and the nature and end of His oblation and ransom. If they had compared these passages with the others, they would have understood the vanity of their hasty misconceptions.

Diligence, patience, waiting and wisdom are required of all men in searching of the Scriptures who intend to come unto the acknowledgment of the truth thereby. The Scripture itself abounds with precepts, rules and directions to enable us to a right and profitable discharging of our duty. Be aware that the diligence of heathens will rise up in judgment and condemn the sloth of many that are called Christians in this matter. For although unbelievers have no certain rule, way, or means to come to the knowledge of the truth, yet they cease not with indefatigable diligence and industry to inquire after it. They will even trace the obscure footsteps of what was left in their own natures or implanted on the works of creation.

Yet, sadly, those unto whom God has granted the inestimable benefit and privilege of his Word as a sure and infallible guide to lead them into the knowledge of all useful and saving truth do openly neglect it. So many do not account the Scriptures worthy of their searching, study, and diligent examination. How woefully this will rise up in judgment against them at the last day is not difficult to conceive. And how much greater will be their misery who, under various pretenses, for their own corrupt ends, do deter, yea, and even go so far as to drive others from the study of it!

Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Warren Smith “Appreciates” Pastor Larry

Warren Smith's tribute, telling of his personal friendship with Pastor Larry DeBruyn, delivered at Larry's Memorial Service on January 7th: https://youtu.be/NyUD_ZOMMlE.

Larry DeBruyn

It has been one of the great privileges of my life to have known, worked, laughed, and fellowshipped with Pastor Larry. Over the years we spoke continually on the phone, exhorting and encouraging one another as we each did our individual best to warn the church about many of the false teachings that were streaming into its midst.

Larry was not only a brilliant writer, he was a dynamic speaker who spoke powerfully and courageously for the Lord. His talks were always filled with Scripture and keen spiritual insight. And with so many persistent health challenges, it was always clear that Larry’s strength came not from himself but from the Lord whom he so faithfully served. Over the years and thanks to the Lord, we were able to speak together at conferences and gatherings in Wisconsin, Michigan, Oregon, California and Kentucky.

Larry and I had a running thing between us about the shallowness of so many of today’s contemporary praise songs. One song in particular repeated the phrase “I appreciate you Lord” over and over again with an over the top “touchy feely” emphasis on the word “appreciate.” We both felt the single word appreciate was so superficial and inadequate, and seemed to beg for something so much stronger in expressing one’s love for the Lord. Often in closing our conversation, I would say--- “I appreciate you Larry! He would laugh and fire back—“Appreciate you man!”

We were an odd couple. Me, the somewhat hang loose California social worker and ex-New Ager. Larry the more traditional Midwest pastor and Dallas Theological Seminary graduate. But it was abundantly clear that the Lord brought us together in His timing and I am so grateful that He did. It was a classic case of iron sharpening iron as we often complimented what the other was thinking and working on.

Our unique friendship in the Lord began after I wrote my book Deceived on Purpose: The New Age Implications of the Purpose-Driven Church. A year or so after my book came out, I received a letter from an Indianapolis pastor who thanked me for my book, and said that while I had done a good job showing the New Age influence of Robert Schuller on Rick Warren, I had overlooked the occult/New Age teachings that had influenced Norman Vincent Peale, and how Peale’s New Age influence had affected Schuller and, in turn, Schuller’s influence on Rick Warren. This Indianapolis pastor had enclosed an article from the Indianapolis Star that documented how Peale had plagiarized specific occult New Age writings and presented them as his own. The pastor’s letter and accompanying documentation was critical in adding to my understanding of the New Age influence that was showing up in Rick Warren’s ministry. I phoned the pastor and thanked him for his letter and documentation. I would later incorporate this information into my next book with a grateful acknowledgment to this pastor named Larry DeBruyn. Over the years when I came upon issues that required a more sophisticated theological approach, I would often hand the issue off to Larry. Before you knew there was a masterful article filled with his thorough research and theological insights.

My contact with Larry was almost non-stop after receiving his letter and making that first phone call. It wasn’t long until I was introducing Larry to many of my discernment friends and, in turn, Larry introduced me to his close friends—the Gifford and VanWingerden families and their respective churches. What Larry initiated in that first letter to me created a chain of events and friendships that truly defines what the church is all about. His legacy is not only his important writings but the relationships that God established through him and that continue on today.

This past summer Larry and I both had serious health problems as we simultaneously and independently worked on issues related to The Shack author Paul Young. We talked almost daily about what we were doing as we exhorted and encouraged each other in our writings. Somehow what we were doing transcended the serious health challenges we were both facing. My days were not complete without Larry reading his latest writings over the phone to me. I know he did the same with his lifelong friend Pastor Bob Gifford and with his discernment writing partner Sarah Leslie. One day last summer, I had what I thought was a great spiritual insight about The Shack only to find out that Larry had already written about it 10 years previous. In fact, it seemed like Larry often wrote whole articles while I was attempting to construct a single paragraph or two! His books and articles represent a monumental and prodigious output for the Lord and are still preserved today on his aptly named website—“Guarding His Flock.”

One of the many things that was so helpful to me was Larry’s vast theological knowledge that included his studies in Greek and Hebrew. I would often ask him questions regarding things I was thinking about and writing. In fact, I ran something by him just three weeks ago concerning the booklet I was writing titled “Fearing God in a Fearless New Age.” As usual, his insight was practical, scriptural, and very helpful. The main point of my booklet was reminding the church of the importance of fearing God in a world that seems to have lost its fear of God. I worked on this booklet for almost 5 weeks and—as it turned out—I finished it just hours before Larry went to be with the Lord. I have dedicated this booklet to Larry—but not as some pleasant gesture to a dearly departed brother. Rather, I dedicate it to a man who represented in my mind everything that it means to fear and love and serve the Lord. In every sense of the word Pastor Larry DeBruyn was a God-fearing man.

Warren's booklet dedicated to Pastor Larry

Larry loved his wife and family. Loved his friends. Loved to watch a good basketball and football game. He knew how to laugh and he knew how to cry. He was an incredibly talented and unique individual—and at the same time so very human. Larry was always Larry. What you saw was what you got. He was definitely true blue. There was no pretense and no compromise. He was very matter of fact. He said it like it was, because God said that was the way it was.

Larry sometimes had a way of terminating a phone call that was so sudden and abrupt that he was gone and halfway into writing his next article before you realized he was no longer on the line. He kind of left us the same way—suddenly and abruptly with no real good-bye. But now instead of being off writing that next article he is off in the arms of the Lord—the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that he served so faithfully and so well. I am just so grateful to Larry for showing this ex-New Ager—and so many countless others—that there are still some God-fearing pastors left in this world who are willing to defend and contend for the faith! We thank God for sending us Larry at the perfect time. He is greatly missed already. I did have a chance to leave a voice message for Larry when he was no longer able to talk. After I finished and hung up the phone I realized there was something else I needed to say. I called back and said—“Larry–there is just one more thing I meant to tell you— “I appreciate you man! I always have and I always will.”

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

A Pastor of Discernment

In Memorium: Pastor Larry DeBruyn

Readers of the Herescope blog know the late Larry DeBruyn as a scholarly writer of helpful books and articles discerning truth from error. But he was first and foremost a pastor, a gifted shepherd, who sincerely cared about people and actively ministered to them in their day-to-day lives. In fact, he once said that the ministry of discernment must arise from rugged ministry done in the trenches of real life with real people, not sitting at a computer in an office. Below is the testimony of his work in the trenches with one of his parishioners, Gaylene Goodroad, who spoke at his memorial service: https://youtu.be/NyUD_ZOMMlE.

Pastor Larry (left) on the mission field in the Ukraine

“…for I
know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I
have entrusted to Him until that day. Retain the standard of sound words which
you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Guard,
through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted
to you.”

(2 Tim. 1:12-14)

By Gaylene Goodroad

I
met Pastor Larry DeBruyn over a decade ago after fleeing from an unhealthy, errant
church, that left me beaten down, weary, and even wary of “church”. As it
happened, I had read a blurb on the Herescope blog about his book, Church on the Rise, that I wanted to
read. When I contacted his church to inquire about getting a copy, I discovered
that it was only a 20-minute ride from my home, so I arranged to pick up a copy
of the book in person from Debbie, his faithful church assistant. Coming out of
the church office that afternoon, my new book tucked under my arm, I literally
ran into Pastor Larry walking down the hallway. He invited me to chat with him
for a few minutes, but the minutes turned into almost two hours. We talked
about church, and most importantly about our Savior, as this gentle pastor, yet
unacquainted with me, heartened a very discouraged sister in Christ.

It had
truly been a divine appointment. Before I left for home, he invited me to the Sunday
service. My husband Steve and I were both there that weekend, eventually
becoming permanent, active church members: Steve became a deacon and member of
the sound ministry; I a deaconess. As a couple, we also sang hymns for special music.
[Steve was a dear brother to Pastor Larry, but could not attend the memorial service due to job requirements.]

Those
years under Pastor Larry’s gifted Bible teaching were the most edifying of my
Christian life. His careful ministry of the Word greatly expanded my
understanding of Scripture and fed my hunger to know Christ more. Sunday evenings
became a cherished part of the week. Pastor Larry would lead an informal
service of prayer, congregational hymn singing, and more Bible study. He had
such a command of the Word—an exhaustive familiarity—that the multi-layered
applications and endless connections seemed to flow from his mind and mouth
with effortless precision. I never wanted these sessions to end. He truly
heeded Paul’s admonishment to Timothy: “Be diligent
to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed,
accurately handling the word of truth.”
(2 Tim. 2:15)

By
God’s grace, I was able to grasp the incredible blessing of this brief snapshot
in history; a precious yet fleeting time never to be repeated in my lifetime.

Steve and I developed an inseparable bond with a dear, older, godly couple who attended the
church with us. Ron and Artie opened their home to Pastor Larry’s Bible studies
and fellowship gatherings. Artie even traveled with me to hear Pastor Larry
speak at conferences. Many holidays were spent with them—and Pastor Larry—talking about the
Lord Jesus Christ and His life-giving word. Ron went to be with the Lord in
2013; Artie in 2015. Pastor Larry officiated at both funerals. Right before
Artie’s service, Pastor Larry called Steve and I into a little room near her casket.
He grasped our hands as we stood in a circle facing each other, his head bowed.
I could feel him trembling as I looked up to see him quietly weeping, something
he wasn’t prone to do publicly. He struggled to speak, but managed to say in a
hushed tone, “I have given literally hundreds of funerals during my many years
of ministry, but this one is tough. Please pray for me.” This was a side of
Pastor Larry that not many knew. His bold, and at times, fiery writings often concealed
his abiding love and tender mercy for others. He never advertised these softer
traits, but they were part of him.

One
of the most difficult times of my life was when my mother died in August of
2014. She had cancer and was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. My youngest sister
and I spent three days with her at the care center in North Dakota without any sleep
as we excruciatingly watched her slowly ebb away from us. She couldn’t speak
and did not know us. The morning of her death, weary and fatigued, we struggled
out to the parking lot with 35 miles yet to travel to complete her final
arrangements. I said a silent prayer, asking God to give me the strength to do
what I needed to do for my mom. As I turned the key in the car ignition, my
cell phone rang. It was Pastor Larry. I’ll never forget his encouraging words:
“Dear sister, I’m praying for you.” As I wept into my phone, he said, “Let’s
pray.” I don’t know how he knew to call me at that moment, but the Lord does.
That one phone call answered my initial prayer and strengthened me to finish my
difficult task.

Pastor Larry was a true shepherd of God’s flock. May he be
richly rewarded by the Good Shepherd himself (Jn. 10:11), the Lord Jesus Christ.

Pastor
Larry also had a compassionate connection to young people. He constantly sought
them out for witnessing and ministry. He eventually set his sights on one young
man in particular; my youngest son Dana. Both my sons were born with special
needs: Jimmy my eldest with high-functioning autism; and Dana with
life-altering neurological difficulties. Last summer, Dana was hospitalized
after a major life crisis. Pastor Larry visited him every day, and later spent
hours with him praying, talking, and ministering the Word. On more than one
occasion, he conducted Bible study with Dana and me over a burger and soft
drink, even when it was evident that he wasn’t feeling well.

Unexpectedly
one Sunday morning a few weeks ago, he boxed up his own leather-bound Bible
(that he purchased for himself), and gave it to us to keep. He said that he wanted
our family to have an additional good study Bible. He meticulously and
carefully showed me how to maneuver through the marginal notes in the most
solemn manner. Then I noted the gilded imprint on the cover with Pastor Larry’s
name in bold letters. What a special treasure he had given us! I wonder now if
he had planned to give this special keepsake all along—knowing what it would
mean to me personally—and knowing that the Lord would be calling him home soon.
God knows.

Pastor
Larry’s writing ministry began in the early years of his full-time church
ministry, as he published papers for congregational consumption, through
newsletters and various articles posted to his church website. Out of his deep
concern for those being seduced by heresy, he remained steadfast to the Word of
God in confronting the onslaught of deception coming against the church in
these last days. Pastor Larry’s comprehensive, multifaceted, and in-depth
writings have been featured on a multitude of online ministry publications and
websites throughout the world, as well as in his own published works. His
immense body of work becomes even more astounding knowing that Pastor Larry
never learned to type. It was indeed an effort of devotion as he ‘hunted and
pecked’ each character onto the page himself.

Pastor
Larry was also an effective communicator in other venues as he ministered the
Scriptures to the saints worldwide, through digital media, one-on-one teaching,
and conference speaking. He was an exceptional preacher, teacher, and church
planter. His careful handling of the Scriptures ministered to everyone within
range of his articulate speaking, and insightful, timely writings. He truly was
an itinerant pastor and protective shepherd.

In the
Lord’s gracious economy, He brought this gifted pastor-teacher together with an
ad hoc group of Christian authors in a writing ministry known as the
Discernment Research Group, a group including Sarah Leslie, Susan Conway, Dr. Martin Erdmann
(our German brother), myself and others. Warren Smith became more of a silent
partner to our noble endeavors. Our bonds tightened as we shared time in the
discernment trenches; a lonely position not suitable for the faint at heart. We
shared insights, research, and an inimitable kinship. Pastor Larry was our resident
minister, confidant, and father figure. He generously shared his seasoned wisdom,
friendship, pastoral oversight, biblical knowledge, and discernment—immeasurable,
God-honoring attributes that penetrated deep into the lives of each one of us.

One
of his most enduring qualities was his ability to turn a phrase or a word into
a thought-provoking, meaningful, and edifying truth. A gifted and prolific
writer, he was able to unpack difficult material in such a way that inquiring
Bereans could recognize heretical ideas and clearly understand the truth apart
from the deception. We even invented a term—a ‘Larry DeBruyn-ism’—i.e., a
carefully crafted phrase or title with a touch of humor or alliteration, such
as one favorite: “saints and ain’ts”.

His
experience, keen insights, and scholarly intellect were lightyears ahead of me,
but not once did he demean my contributions nor disparage my gender. Instead,
he treated me as a favored daughter. Pastor Larry invested himself in the ministry of two nondescript
housewives from the Midwest doing discernment work. Under his pastoral tutelage both Sarah Leslie and I were assisted in our writing. Pastor Larry was always excited to share
insights he had just gleaned from Bible study, or new ideas for upcoming
writing projects. He would always solicit feedback and inspiration. I
am indebted to his dear wife, Margie, and sons David and Daniel, for
sacrificially sharing their beloved husband and father with so many of us in
the discernment ministry.

Pastor
Larry’s loss to us personally cannot be calculated.

I
am overjoyed to know that Pastor Larry’s physical sufferings are complete and
that he is safely and eternally in the care of our precious Savior, but my
heart still hurts because he is not here. Pastor Larry was not only my pastor,
friend, ministry partner, and brother in Christ, but he was truly my ‘father in
the Lord’.

My husband Steve and I consider it a great blessing and honor to have known this
prodigious man of God. In keeping with the Apostle Paul’s charge to Timothy,
Pastor Larry “preached the Word in season and out, reproved, rebuked, and
exhorted with great patience and instruction, was sober in all things, endured
hardship, did the work of an evangelist—and fulfilled his ministry. The time of
his departure came having fought the good fight, finishing the course, and keeping
the faith….” (2 Tim. 4:1-6) I am comforted with the truth that we will reunite
someday, “when the Lord Himself descends from heaven with a shout, with the
voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, as we are caught up
together to meet the Lord in the air, so we shall always be with the Lord.” (1
Thess. 4: 13-18) Maranatha!

“… Shepherd the flock
of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily,
according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor
yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be
examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”(1 Pet. 5:2-4)

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Pastor Larry DeBruyn's Memorial Service

Now Posted on YouTube

The Memorial Service for our departed friend Pastor Larry DeBruyn was held on January 7th. The service was officiated by his lifelong best friend, Bob Gifford, who pastors the Sovereign Grace Baptist Church in Dale City, Virginia. The church people were doubly sad, as they had also just lost a
longtime faithful missionary, Mrs. Doom; so viewers will note there are several mentions of her throughout the course of the service.

Pastor Bob Gifford opened the service with a beautiful sermon and moving tribute to Pastor Larry. He told anecdotes from their long friendship, as they both served the Lord in ministry. Pastor Gifford told how Pastor DeBruyn was obedient to the Lord at great cost to write on biblical discernment in the latter years. Pastor Bob's wife Jane then stood to read letters commending Larry's ministry while in the pastorate.

Pastor Bob Gifford remembering his friend Larry.

Warren Smith was unable to attend the service but, thanks to the technology offered him by Berean Call, was able to record a special message remembering his friend Larry which was played for the service. Lynn Leslie then read aloud the series of tributes mailed in (these are reprinted in our previous post). Some from Pastor Larry's mission workers also sent in video recordings which are included in the YouTube memorial service.

Sarah Leslie delivered a eulogy, recalling the story of Larry's prolific research and writing with the Discernment Research Group. She told of the vast influence of Pastor Larry's writing ministry across the world, both in writing and traveling to the mission field.

Gaylene Goodroad, who frequently writes for Herescope, and her husband Steve were among Pastor Larry's faithful parishioners. She related a moving story of how Pastor Larry ministered to her in a time of need, and spoke of what a blessing he was to their family. In introducing her Pastor Gifford commended the women who worked alongside Pastor Larry in discernment as 'Deborahs'.

The last part of the memorial service was an extended time of sharing and remembering Pastor Larry DeBruyn. Many stood up and spoke very nice things about this godly man. He will be sorely missed!

Church member Matthew Jenkins and Lynn Leslie sharing a jaunty hat moment after the service, along with Sarah Leslie and Gaylene Goodroad

Warren Smith wants our readers to know that his most recent booklet/tract, just published, is dedicated to his good friend Pastor Larry. What a fitting tribute!

Over the years Pastor Larry DeBruyn contributed in one way or another to well over 300 articles posted on Herescope. Below is the written text of the remarks I made eulogizing Pastor Larry. Mention was also made of the term 'larrydebruynism' which we all used humorously to refer to his unique turn of a phrase that so often appeared in his article titles, subtitles, and writings on Herescope. By God's grace, and with the blessing of Pastor Larry's friends and family, we will
be taking steps to preserve his work and publish his writings so that his ministry will continue to bear precious fruit.

Remembering Larry DeBruyn

By Sarah H. Leslie, Jan. 6, 2018

“Behold, bless ye the LORD,
all ye servants of the LORD,
which by night stand in the house of the LORD.”
(Psalm 134:1)

The Lord has removed a watchman who was
standing on the wall. Larry DeBruyn was plucked by the Lord off the wall, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Pastor Larry was a night watchman who witnessed the impending darkness of demonic
idolatry descending over the land. He faithfully and boldly sounded warnings
about the dangers coming into the body of Christ. With his passing, Isaiah 57:1
comes to mind. “The
righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it
to heart: and merciful men are
taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come.”

I will tell some of the story of how Pastor Larry came to be
a globally renowned discernment and apologist writer. In 2005 the Discernment
Research Group began publishing the Herescope blog. The history of this
research group goes back to the mid 1980s when my husband Lynn and I banded
together with a group of likeminded Christians to research the New Age and
occult that was coming into the church. We first called ourselves the Iowa
Research Group, and in the early 1990s we began publishing and sharing research
with discerning Christians who were banding together on the Internet. Herescope
had been the name of a monthly column in the magazine my husband and I had
published in the 1990s called The
Christian Conscience. We had spent several decades writing, publishing and
standing against the occult, paganism, false doctrines, New Age beliefs,
heretical doctrines, dominionism, and weirdness that was coming into the
church.

Pastor Larry’s writing first came into my hands in the mid
1990s when he wrote a short article concerned about Promise Keepers, a topic
that I had also written about – in retrospect it seems significant that I had
written about its pagan mysticism, a subject that Pastor Larry would eventually
become quite familiar with. I didn’t know who Larry was at that time, nor do I
recall who sent me the article, but I remember it because it was noteworthy.

It was our friend Warren Smith, whose Christian testimony is
that he came out of the New Age movement, who first introduced us to Pastor
Larry. We had known Warren since the early 1990s, and had gone on to publish
the first edition of his two books Reinventing
Jesus Christ and Deceived on Purpose.Warren felt that Pastor Larry’s unique
gifts and deep spiritual insight, as well as his scholarly style of writing, made
him well-suited to our ministry’s particular mission.

Indeed, Pastor Larry found a comfortable niche with our
ministry. He began giving us permission to republish the discernment articles
he was writing. Many discerning saints appreciated his gentle but forthright style
of writing. Pastor Larry took great pains to be well-documented and researched,
delivering a clear pronouncement of biblical truth against the error. Many readers
expressed gratefulness that he had written a credible and scholarly article they
felt comfortable printing off and taking to their pastor and church leaders.

One noteworthy attribute of Larry’s personality was his
clever wit and wonderful sense of humor. When we discovered that we both shared
a love of satire we began to work together more closely. It all started when
the late Pastor Ken Silva of Apprising Ministries and I were inventing new
words to satirize the weird stuff going on in the evangelical church world. It
was really a silly, quirky thing that we enjoyed doing, and it took the edge
off of the dark horrors we were researching. Pastor Larry DeBruyn quickly joined
in our hilarity, and added in the necessary theology to our posts. We ran a
whole series on Herescope called “Neologisms for Evangelicals.” The favorites
were our many deviations on the term Sola
Scriptura – Plura Scriptura, Sola Mystica, Sola Experientia, MantraScriptura, and so on. How I will miss those quick phone calls from Larry.
He would dictate words for me to type in, but he would have to stop because he
was laughing so hard he couldn’t speak!

During this process Larry and I discovered that we worked
very well together. From that point forward we began to more closely research
and write together. Meanwhile Pastor Larry was retiring from his pastorate. At
first he was uncertain about his future. I remember when Pastor Larry called
me, quite discouraged, feeling very meek that his life’s work wasn’t going
anywhere. He loved his Eastern European mission work and wanted to go on more
mission trips. He had become quite involved with Discernment Ministries and
frequently spoke at our conferences. His articles were being read across the
globe. Yet he felt disheartened, wondering if he was producing fruit for the
Lord.

One weekend he made a special trip to Pastor Jeff
Whittaker’s church in Niles, Michigan to meet a group of pastors from
Australia. A short while later Pastor Larry was invited to travel overseas by
these pastors to go to Australia and New Zealand. Pastor Larry was off on his
global travels! While he was still healthy he also traveled to South Africa and
taught at a Bible School in Zimbabwe. God definitely did not retire him.

Pastor Larry used his time not traveling to become a more prolific writer. Of the 940 posts we
have put up since 2005 Pastor Larry either wrote or contributed significantly
to over 300 of them. Over the years he always wondered how many “hits” we had
on his posts on the blog, and then would quickly add in humility, “Not that it
really matters.” But it did! Writing on the Internet sometimes feels like
writing into a giant vacuum – is anyone out there paying attention, listening,
heeding the warning, repenting? We very seldom see the fruits of our work.
Plus, on Herescope the silly blog counter never worked right, and it didn’t
keep track of visitors accurately. But I could access the real figures on the
blog and I’d assure him that tens of thousands of people across the globe were
reading and disseminating his articles. Knowing this, plus being blessed
periodically by wonderful kind letters he received from readers, encouraged Pastor
Larry to continue his tedious and painstaking work of research and writing.

Pastor Larry became a bulwark for the rest of us doing
discernment work, particularly for Gaylene Goodroad and I. We were writing
about some very dark heresies coming into the church. It is an odd quirk of the
Lord’s that He placed we two women in Larry’s life, and him in ours. Gaylene
and I both have powerful testimonies of coming out of the occult and eastern
mysticism. Gaylene was involved in the martial arts and her testimony is
written in an online booklet My Life inthe Way. My testimony has never been written, but I survived the hippie era
where I was deeply involved in transcendental meditation and the occult, as
well as having many other extraordinary life experiences. Pastor Larry provided
us significant biblical counsel on how to write about these dark heresies. He also
publicly affirmed our remarkable callings and took extra steps to cover us with
his pastoral oversight.

Pastor Larry had a unique gift to walk the fine line between
warring theological camps by standing on the firm ground of Scripture itself.
He had a unique gift of being able to think through theology in a way that was
not divisive but solidly biblical. We never saw him have a bitter spirit nor exhibit
an attitude of contentiousness. He did not believe in attacking men, but rather
focused his efforts on exposing the new (often repackaged old) bad doctrines
coming into the church. Pastor Larry’s heart’s desire, often expressed to us,
was to simply contend for the faith: the Gospel of Jesus Christ, His shed blood
on the cross for our sins, His death and resurrection, and His soon second
coming. Pastor Larry was so meek that there were several noteworthy occasions
when he was working on an article where he chose to set it aside when he
learned that it might fuel a dispute between brothers, or cause more contention
in the body of Christ. Always he strove for peace.

Early on in our discernment work we prayed for the Lord to
raise up godly pastors who could stand with us as we watched and warned. Very
few men have been willing, and even fewer have had the courage, to take on the
ministry of discernment. This ministry truly is the “offscouring” of the modern
church era, much disparaged and maligned, with few rewards and much grief. Yet,
Pastor Larry entered this ministry and began tackling head-on some of the
hardest issues facing the church. He had a willing heart to obey God in this
difficult ministry, knowing he “wrestled
not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers,
against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness
in high places.”

Pastor Larry was very bold in his proclamation of the Gospel
of Salvation. He saw all heresy as an attack on the Gospel and thus he stood firmly
as a watchman on the wall to proclaim the truth against the error. This often
meant he had to research the error, and as awful as that was, he would rejoice
even more in learning what great blessing God had given us in His Son Christ
Jesus. Towards the end of his life Pastor Larry often told me that God had
blessed him with great insight into how the Gospel stands as a beacon of light
and truth against all spiritual wickedness in high places. This emboldened him
all the more and he was writing on this topic up to the very end of his life.

A year ago in December Pastor Larry’s health took a serious
turn for the worse. I did not hear from him for many weeks and it seemed that
he might die. At this same time we were experiencing a difficult struggle in
our discernment work. I prayed fervently, then prayed and fasted, that the Lord
might give us Larry for more time. About a year ago one day the phone rang. It
was Pastor Larry. He started the conversation with, “I’m alive! I didn’t die!”
He didn’t see my tears as I wept for joy, praising God. The extra days that God
gave him to us were filled with much ministry work, a huge writing project
against a new form of Universalism, and a great deal of joint research on a
book he was writing against ancestor worship. The week he died I was in the
midst of trying to track down a few quotations he wanted to use. It is our
prayer that with God’s help these unfinished manuscripts will be completed.

We praise God for Pastor Larry’s life and how it enriched
ours… and yours.

“Then they that feared the LORD
spake often one to another:and the LORD hearkened, and heard it,
and a book of remembrance was written before Him
for them that feared the LORD,
and that thought upon his name.
And they shall be Mine, saith the LORD of hosts,
in that day when I make up my jewels;…”
(Malachi 3:16-17a)

Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Remembering Pastor Larry

TRIBUTES to Pastor Larry DeBruyn

The following are just a few of the tributes that were read at the Memorial Service for our dear colleague Pastor Larry DeBruyn on Sunday January 7th in Dale City, Virginia. Pastor Larry's service will be posted on YouTube in the next few days. We will put up a post with the details.

October 7, 1944 - Dec. 28, 2017

When Jewel Grewe called me and said she wanted to hold a
Discernment / Berean Call Conference in South Africa in January 2016, we were
thrilled to hear that Larry deBruyn would be accompanying her. Having read
his books and articles, we were looking forward to meeting Larry in
person. Larry’s father-heart came through and we found him so easy to
converse with and despite his own hardships he had experienced, his concern and
love for people was evident. With a zeal and passion for the Truth he
selflessly served the Church of Jesus Christ travelling to different countries
with his precise teachings and power-point presentations that were a blessing
to us all.

The words of this beautiful hymn “Brother let me be your servant” reminds us of Larry! He will
be sorely missed by us all… until we meet again…

I will hold the Christ-light for you
In the night-time of your fear;
I will hold my hand out to you,
Speak the peace you long to hear.
I will weep when you are weeping,
When you laugh I'll laugh with you;
I will share your joy and sorrow
Till we've seen this journey through.

When we sing to God in heaven
We shall find such harmony,
Born of all we've known together
Of Christ's love and agony.
Brother, let me be your servant,
Let me be as Christ to you;
Pray that I may have the graceTo let you be my servant, too.

Condolences from The
Theological College of Southern Africa which is based in Zimbabwe.
The College Community in Southern Africa expresses its heartfelt condolences to
Pastor Larry Debryn's family, the Saints in the USA on the passing on of our
beloved minister of the Lord's flock across the world. While it seems a loss
for us all we exhort the brethren all over the world to celebrate his life as a
gift from God that was given and has now been taken.

We had the privilege to
be ministered to by Pastor Larry in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe on the 30th of January
to the 7th of February 2016. This is almost 2 years ago but we were still
feeling the blessing of lectures during those days. We were continuing to pray
for his return trip anytime this year but the Lord has seen it fit to call him
home. We then will continue to praising the Lord for the wonderful gift that he
was.

From
the Zimbabwe Bible College

Remembering
Larry DeBruyn

Most
people who know the name Larry DeBruyn, know him as a discerner and apologist.
Indeed, he was those things par excellence. He wrote and spoke indefatigably against
error and his work is visible all over the internet and on countless
bookshelves and in the hearts of thousands. Not only did he have an excellent
grasp of the theological issues but he exhibited a Christ-like spirit towards
even his opponents. There are many who attempt to defend truth, but not many
who do it with the right attitude. Larry was one of a select few who spoke and
wrote, not because he had a chip on his shoulder but because he cared.

He
cared for truth, but he also cared for those who are deceived as well as those
who are the deceivers. This concern for the people as well as the doctrine was
no doubt borne out of his many years in pastoral work. Yes, he was an excellent
apologist, but he was also a true shepherd of the flock.

Indeed,
he was more than an apologist. He was also a teacher who cherished every
opportunity to teach the truth wherever the Lord would open a door for him –
across the world, to every culture and to large and small gatherings alike.
Once again, there are many who can point out error but Larry was one of a few
whose passion was as much for truth as against error. As a teacher he remained
faithful to the fundamentals of the faith at a time when most are defecting to
the left and right. Today teachers are dime a dozen, but those who remain
faithful to the faith once delivered are very rare indeed. Such was Larry
DeBruyn.

More
than an apologist, pastor and teacher, Larry was also a friend. Many years ago
I was struggling with a very difficult situation in a very difficult church. I
was in despair and ready to quit. Unexpectedly Larry called and spent time
encouraging me with the same comfort he had been comforted with in a similar
situation. When it seemed that all others had forsaken or forgotten, Larry had
not, and I will never forget his kindness at such a dark hour. Larry was a
friend who sticks closer than a brother.

No
one is indispensable and the Lord knows what He is doing when He calls His
warriors home but Larry will certainly leave a huge gap in the ministry and
amongst my friends. Apart from his roles as a family man, Larry was a true
apologist, teacher, shepherd and friend. His reward will indeed be great!

“Precious in the
sight of the LORD Is the death of His saints.” (Psalms 116:15)

Pastor Anton Bosch, 1/4/18Sun Valley Community Church

Late Pastor Larry
We have learnt through TCSA of the untimely passing on of Pastor Larry.
Untimely in that it was our desire for the dear pastor to continue with the
good work and investment of this divine partnership. However, we accept that
the Almighty had better ideas.

We nevertheless take
comfort that what Larry achieved will forever remain etched in the memories of
those who were blessed to have interacted with. That interaction still has
positive impact to this day and we prayer for its continuation in the
future.

Please pass our sincere
condolences to the surviving families, the Christian community in the States
and the wider Christian community at large. Pastor Larry’s contribution was
purposeful in a life well spent.

May the Lord continue to
comfort all of us in the full knowledge that a reunion awaits us yonder.

For
and on behalf of Assemblies of God Zimbabwe 🇿🇼,
Nathan Setlhako (Chairman - National Executive)

My name is T.A. McMahon and I’m the
Executive Director of The Berean Call, a ministry founded by Dave Hunt. It’s my
privilege to share some memories and thoughts about my friend Larry.

When
I first met Pastor Larry, the Lord had directed him into writing in the area of
spiritual discernment, which he took to not only with grace but also with the
heart of a shepherd who had great concern for God’s sheep in our days of
growing deception.

For
those of us in discernment ministries we are aware of the great diversity of
false teachings that the Adversary continues to use to deceive the body of
Christ. Some are billboard obvious yet they are nevertheless seductive.

Others
are very complex and intimidating in the sense that they seem to be supported
by science. It was the latest concepts of that nature, such as quantum
spirituality, that were not science but rather false teachings or
pseudoscience. Larry was wonderfully able to explain the errors simply and then
show how they undermined the truth of God’s Word.

Quantum
physics and its relation to quantum spirituality was not something I was
particularly interested in trying to figure out, or was even capable of,
although I saw the serious influence it was having in Christendom. Those who
promoted the Word/Faith Movement were using quantum spirituality to support
their corruption of both God’s Word and in particular the critical biblical
doctrine of Faith.

Those
who were into the teachings of pantheism and panentheism, that God is nothing
more than an impersonal force or energy and that God is in everything, i.e.,
everything is God, were also deceiving multitudes. Larry made a valuable
contribution through his work in debunking the false science involved thereby
helping the discernment of and the equipping of biblical Christians.

Larry
and I spent time together in South Africa and he helped me greatly in my own
lack of understanding regarding quantum spirituality. His explanations enabled
me to see how the latest pseudoscientific concepts fit into the ongoing
deceptions Satan had been promoting since the Garden of Eden, and which Dave
Hunt and I had been writing about for decades.

Larry
understood that God had given him the grace—and time—to do a unique work, and
he was ever so thankful.

South
Africa was a special time. We both took very seriously the work God privileged
and enabled us to do. On the other hand, Larry was the main laugh track on the
personal videos we made during that trip that featured some of my blunders,
from unintentionally exploding a smoothie blender the contents of which
decorated a kitchen—to the crashing of my parafoil kite in our hosts’ most
cherished tree—to dredging their pool for my sunken GoPro camera.

There
nothing quite like having a smiling, heavyweight Dutchman towering over me each
morning inquiring as to what adventure I might have in store for the day!

Larry
spoke at our Berean Call Conference a couple of years ago and it was obvious to
all that the niche that God had called him to fill regarding discernment was
wonderfully fulfilled. He finished the race by grace.

I’m
going to miss him, yet I thank Jesus for the time I had with him.

TA
McMahon, Berean Call

Pastor Larry was a dear friend. I
will greatly miss him. He had send me a message only two days before I heard
that he was admitted to the hospital. I never expected it to be his last one to
me.

For
nearly ten years, ever since he picked me up at the airport in Indianapolis, IN
when I had arrived from Switzerland in order to drive me to the Discernment
Conference in Niles, MI, I cherished his friendship and close cooperation in
the Discernment Research Group. He had a keen mind and a great love for his
Savior Jesus Christ. While he recommended me as a guest preacher to American
pastors and often drove me himself to one or the other church or ministry
venue, I don’t recall that we ever spoke about anything else but the truths of
the Bible and how it needed to be defended effectively against all of the
heretical teaching which had crept into the evangelical churches. I benefitted
from his godly counsel and deeply spiritual insights. I don’t believe there was
even one incident that I disagreed with his views on the Bible or anything
else. He pointed me to resources in my research whenever he could and was glad
when I was able to help him in his. Once, when I preached in his church, he
gave me an expressive Bible software program as a gift. I still use it almost
every day. While much more could be said about Pastor Larry, when I think of
him only one thought comes immediately to mind: His great dedication to know
the Bible, as best as he could, preach and teach it to others with a passion,
and live out its truths moment by moment in order to glorify God and be a
blessing to others.

Again,
I miss him dearly but am glad to know that he can see Jesus Christ, his Savior,
face to face now and be in His presence for all eternity.

Dr. Martin
Erdmann

I was Pastor Larry’s secretary for
over 14 years and was fortunate to get to know him very well.If you did not have this opportunity, you
missed out on a very dear friend.Most
of you know he was a wonderful Biblical scholar with such deep insight to God’s
word, but he was also a very caring, compassionate, sensitive man.He loved the Lord, and he loved His
people.There were so many times I saw
the soft, gentle side of him as he was helping someone during a difficult
time.He helped my husband and me during
the time our 21 year old son had a massive stroke.He not only visited and prayed for Brad while
we was in the hospital and rebab, but he took the time to talk with Dave and me
as we were handling this devastating blow, adding his tears to ours.He was my confidant, as I was his, and I
counted that a privilege.

He
was also a very generous, giving man.I
recall one time a young lady in our church asked him his opinion of which study
Bible to purchase. Knowing the family was tight on money, Pastor Larry
purchased his recommendation and had it sent to her house.She was so grateful!That was just one of many, many times I saw
his generosity.

We
would have coffee breaks in my office occasionally.Anyone who was in the church at the time
would gather in my office for a few minutes of fellowship.Often it would turn into a mini Bible lesson
as Pastor Larry discussed a topic that was on his mind at the time.I loved that!

One
thing that makes me smile whenever I think of him is how he tickled himself so
when he told a joke.Everyone would
laugh…..but his would always be the loudest.I think he loved the telling as much as the joke itself.

Pastor
Larry was a dear man and I will miss him so much.As I said, anyone who was able to get to know
him well was blessed with a true friend.I was privileged to be one of them.

Debbie
Kennedy

Pastor Larry DeBruyn wholeheartedly
and lovingly served his Master and Lord Jesus Christ and the believers in each
church that he pastored. We were fortunate enough to live under his leadership
and to become friends with him and Margie. Gaylene first discovered Franklin
Road Baptist Church when we were looking for a new church home in 2008. I was
cautious about getting involved with another church without understanding the church’s
position on Christian doctrine and was hoping to read something more than a
mission statement. I wanted to know how the church put the doctrine into
practice. I found this answer in Pastor Larry’s Pastor Letters that were posted
to the FRBC website at the time. He had written an entire series of letters
about practical, everyday Christian living for the membership of FRBC.

There
can be no doubt that Pastor Larry had a true calling as a Pastor. The most
compelling evidence is his fervent work after his retirement as a Senior
Pastor. He continued his teaching ministry in many countries, served with
Discernment Ministries in both writing and editing articles and began his own
website and blog. He never retired in the American sense of retirement, instead
he moved from one phase of Christian service to another. This is also true of
his death. He has simply moved from Christian service in this life to the
perfect form of Christian service and worship of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Friday, January 05, 2018

Pastor Larry's Service to be Live-Streamed

MEMORIAL SERVICE for Pastor Larry DeBruyn...details are still being worked out... stay tuned...

Saints whose lives have been positively impacted by the ministry of Pastor Larry DeBruyn have been inquiring about how they might be able to either listen (audio) or watch (video) Pastor Larry's memorial service. Details are still being worked out.

The service will be conducted on Sunday morning, January 7, 10:30 EST by his lifelong best friend, Pastor Bob Gifford, at the Sovereign Grace Baptist Church, 14703 Silverdale Drive, Dale City, Virginia 22193. The church's website is http://www.sgbcva.com. Warren Smith, Sarah Leslie and Bob Gifford will be eulogizing Pastor Larry.For those who are a bit tech savvy, here is one method to listen. Go to Mixlr.com. At the bottom of the homepage click "Start Free Trial". It will take you to a page where you can download the app where it says you can try it for free 14-day. You will have to set up a user name and password in order to use the app. Search for SOVEREIGNGRACE.

Check back frequently on this blog as we will post updated information, as we learn more details. There will be other listening options.

A video of Pastor Larry's service will be posted on YouTube in a few days. Stay tuned. . . .

Written memorials expressing how Pastor Larry positively impacted their life of faith can be submitted to herescope@gmail.com. These will be provided to his wife and family. Please keep all in prayer in the days and weeks to come.

Friday, December 29, 2017

Pastor Larry DeBruyn

Passed Into Glory

Oct. 7, 1944 - Dec. 28, 2017

It is with great sorrow, accompanied by great joy, that we inform our readers that our dear friend Pastor Larry DeBruyn has gone to be with the Lord after a final battle with illness. Pastor Larry was a great warrior for the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and his ministry spanned the globe.

Pastor Larry was an integral part of the Herescope blog publication process and served as a pastor overseeing the Discernment Research Group. Pastor Larry's wise counsel, scholarly wisdom, firm guidance, adherence to biblical integrity, and godly life ministered to all of us. We will miss him greatly.

Once far from God and dead in sin,No light my heart could see;But in God’s Word the light I found,Now Christ liveth in me.

Refrain:Christ liveth in me,Christ liveth in me,Oh! what a salvation this,That Christ liveth in me.

As rays of light from yonder sunThe flow’rs of earth set free,So life and light and love came forthFrom Christ living in me.

As lives the flow’r within the seed,As in the cone the tree,So, praise the God of truth and grace,His Spirit dwelleth in me.

With longing all my heart is filled,That like Him I may be,As on the wondrous thought I dwellThat Christ liveth in me.

One of Pastor Larry's favorite poems, from a recent PowerPoint presentation he made:

This teaching graphic accompanied his talk:

Pastor Larry boldly warned about the Spiritual Seductioncoming into the church, and many of his conference talks are still available HERE. He was the author of many books (available from Discernment Ministries), including Church on the Rise: Why I am not a Purpose-Driven Pastor, UNSHACKLED: Breaking Away From Seductive Spirituality, Drumming Up Deception: Whether in celebration or in contemplation: "feeling" the beat!, and God's Present of "His Presence". He also authored many articles; one of his favorites was Altered States: A Different Gate, a topic that he researched extensively. His many articles are archived on both Herescope and his own website Guarding His Flock. During his last year Pastor Larry was working on several important book manuscripts and articles yet to be published.

Pastor Larry, we will all miss you. We ask for prayers, that the Lord give us grace, wisdom, strength and boldness to continue to stand for His Truth during these last days.

About Me

Check your daily "HERESCOPE." Herescope is an online journal revealing heresies and false teachings affecting the church today. Copyright 2005-2017 held by the author, IRG, Inc., or Discernment Ministries, Inc. unless otherwise noted. Herescope is a term coined by Lynn Leslie literally meaning "scoping out a heresy." Herescope began as a regular magazine column in The Christian Conscience magazine published during 1995-1998 by IRG, Inc. The Discernment Research Group is an ad hoc fellowship of Christian researchers with roots dating back to 1985. For more articles, books, and newsletters go to http://www.discernment-ministries.org.